The Journal of Molluscan Studies accepts papers on all aspects of the study of molluscs. These include systematics, molecular genetics, palaeontology, ecology, evolution, and physiology. Where the topic is in a specialized field (e.g. parasitology, neurobiology, biochemistry, molecular biology), submissions will still be accepted as long as the mollusc is the principal focus of the study, and not incidental or simply a convenient experimental animal. Papers with a focus on fisheries biology, aquaculture, and control of molluscan pests will be accepted only if they include significant advances in molluscan biology. While systematic papers are encouraged, descriptions of single new taxa will only be considered if they include some ‘added value’, for example in the form of new information on anatomy or distribution, or if they are presented in the context of a systematic revision or phylogenetic analysis of the group.
Five categories of papers are published:
Featured Article : a single paper in each issue, chosen by the Editor-in-Chief (d.reid@nhm.ac.uk) for its unusual interest or potentially wide appeal; the article is immediately available for free download.
Review Papers : comprehensive reviews and syntheses on topics of wide general interest within molluscan research. Potential authors are advised to contact the Editor-in-Chief regarding topic and proposed length.
Research Papers : traditional research papers describing advances in knowledge and understanding based on analysis of data.
Research Notes : these are generally methodological notes or brief reports that are of wide interest or importance; they are published as rapidly as possible after acceptance.
Comment and Response : a short critique of a Research Paper, with a response from the original author.
Journal of Molluscan Studies also publishes “Themed Clusters” of papers and occasional “Special Issues” on appropriate topical themes. These may be based on submissions at special sessions at scientific meetings or workshops. Please contact the Editor-in-Chief (d.raheem@nhm.ac.uk) with proposals for themed clusters of papers or potential Special Issues.